Before entering public service, agriculture and business had been Celso's field of concentration and expertise. He worked for the Elizalde group of companies for eleven years and held several key executive positions such as Marketing Manager for Elizalde International, and managing director and general manager of Tanduay Distillery. It was during Celso's watch that the firm exported its products for the first time to the US market and won several medals and awards in various international competitions of wines and spirits.
During his first term 1998 – 2001, national projects worth over P2.2 billion were initiated and/or implemented.
Mayor (2004–13)
He was elected mayor for three terms from 2004 to 2013,[2] replacing his mother Maria Clara Lobregat.
Congressman (2013–19)
He was elected again for Congressman of District I, under Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino. He servered as a representative for a total of four terms, including his 1999–2004 term.[2]